Offshore key to jobs

ICE’s latest energy sector briefing, Offshore Renewables − Unlocking the Potential, was widely supported by industry leaders, academics and politicians at its launch at One Great George Street this week.

The UK energy sector needs to undergo a radical transformation so it can meet future demand in an environmentally sustainable way.

The report says that harnessing the UK’s abundant natural resources could be the key to tackling the UK’s energy crisis, and make a massive contribution to the economy with the creation of over 40,000 jobs.

Speaking at the launch, Labour MP Alan Simpson agreed offshore renewables were a significant opportunity to the UK, saying that if jobs and sourcing can take place in the UK it will bring significant profits.

He stressed that skills and infrastructure are essential. “There is an incredible opportunity to build a cross party alliance on this. This is something to be excited about,” he said. ICE vice president Richard Coackley said: “It’s time for the UK to move out of the rhetoric and into reality. It would be a terrible shame if in 20 years we are forced to admit ‘we missed a trick’.”

The full report and earlier ICE briefings on the energy sector can be downloaded on the ICE website.

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